Efficient Nanotube-Driven Amplifier

Summary form only given.This paper presents that the microwave technologies is developing a compact two-cavity amplifier that uses a rugged carbon-nanotube cold-cathode to produce microwave radiation with very high efficiency. The entire RF circuit and electron gun have already been built and are currently under testing. We will present experimental results of electron beam generation and transport along the C-band RF circuit. Initial microwave amplification results will be also reported. This new amplifier should be capable of replacing conventional traveling- wave tubes in future radar and communication systems by offering substantial improvements in size, weight, and especially efficiency over its counterparts. This work is supported by the missile defense agency under the small business innovation research program.